2016 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible First Look Review

Hello LT1, Goodbye Manual Top

General Motors already revealed a bulk of the big news regarding the 2016 Chevrolet Camaro when the coupe version was unveiled last month. This time around, Chevy is showing off the 2016 Camaro convertible, and the drop-top has a few new tricks of its own.

For starters, there's less chance of straining your arm muscles or breaking a nail because the new Camaro convertible's power-retractable top is fully automatic. No more fussing with a latch to release or secure the top in place. That latch was far from complicated to operate, but removing it from the equation definitely simplifies things and gives Camaro owners bragging rights over the Mustang drop-top.Chevrolet claims the Camaro convertible will feature more segment-exclusive features. Not only will the electro-hydraulic top operate at speeds of up to 30 mph, but it'll open and close remotely through the key fob. Additionally, a hard tonneau cover will automatically cover the soft top when it's retracted for a cleaner look.Speaking of looks, the convertible looks essentially identical to the coupe from the waist down. The new, smaller platform gives the 2016 Camaro convertible a more taut and sharp look compared to its predecessor, though the overall appearance isn't a drastic change from model-year 2015. The interior, however, is a big improvement thanks to nicer materials and better tech. As previously reported, rear legroom shrinks even more due to the shorter wheelbase, now 110.7 inches compared to 112.3 inches.The 2016 Chevrolet Camaro convertible benefits from the same Alpha-platform chassis as the coupe, which is stiffer and contributes to a curb weight that's 200 pounds lighter than the previous model. However, there's no word on how the addition of a power top will affect the convertible's weight. Still, the automaker promises cowl shake and quivers will be nonexistent. We briefly drove a 2016 Camaro coupe prototype and noted its stiffer body and improved handling so we expect the same qualities from the convertible.Like the coupe, the Camaro convertible will get three engine options and a choice between a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 making 275 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, while a new 3.6-liter V-6 is rated at 335 hp and 284 lb-ft. Sitting at the top of the lineup (for now) is the Camaro SS with an LT1 6.2-liter V-8 making 455 hp and 455 lb-ft. The Camaro SS coupe will be offered with magnetic ride control, which should also be an option for the drop-top version as well.Pricing will be announced later, but shouldn't be far off from current MSRPs. For reference, a base 2015 Camaro convertible currently starts at $32,200. GM says to look for the first batch of 2016 Chevrolet Camaro convertibles to arrive in showrooms by early 2016, just in time for next year's spring road trips.